What is the Best Time to Visit Fiji for your Next Vacation? 

BY  Sibashree Aug 2, 2023

I travel often, and I know many of you do, too. Recently, I tried Play Airlines, a new budget airline popular with Gen Z.   Founded in 2019, Play Airlines follows the motto "pay less, play more." It offers flights from major East Coast cities in the US to destinations like London and Copenhagen.  Also, all these flights are hundreds of dollars less than those of other airlines. This is why it appeals to travelers looking to save money.  The airline carriers are among the best that offer ultra-low fares when traveling to Europe. So the new entrant in the market has appeared in the search results for Transatlantic flights after April 2022. The airline aims to bring visitors to Iceland and connect North America and Europe. The airline started flying in 2021 in Iceland; however, in North America, the service began in April 2022. Do you want to know more about the PLAY Airlines reviews? I will tell you about the airline, its foundation, and my experience? Keep reading!  This Is My Experience With Play Airlines! When the airline carrier was first inaugurated, Play Airlines and Baltimore Airport collaborated to create a good impression in the form of a water cannon salute when the first plane of Play Airline pulled up to the gate. Overall, the first impression was quite well made by Play Airlines. The staff is helpful and interactive. Another added advantage of a low-budget carrier airline. It is unheard of for a low-budget carrier airline to be perfect concerning its services. I would also like to discuss certain shortcomings that I identified. Do give it a go before you book tickets on Play! The flight I traveled on was spacious, clean, and memorable because I was finally traveling to Paris, one of my dream destinations. What Is Play Airlines? Play Airlines is addressed as the Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC), which is not completely uncommon. However, many carriers have additional charges based on transportation, which ULCC still needs! These airlines are perfect for passengers traveling on a budget like me! My travel plans are concrete, and I am not free to have flexible dates and timings because I have a job! I am also one of those who do not care about luxury or frills added to necessities. Therefore, I am functional when it comes to services such as Wi-Fi and entertainment charging points. Ultimately, I can adjust this much if I am traveling to a destination, especially for a vacation. Play is the successor of Wow Air, a low-cost airline carrier that ran out of service in 2019. So, if you question, is Play Airlines safe? It is. PLAY Airlines Reviews 2025: Did I like It?  So I was traveling to Paris from Boston and was charged $292 for a roundtrip. To begin with, this is quite a cheap deal that I have got on Play Airline. Another significant thing I noticed and did not expect was a comfortable seat and 34 inches of legroom. Isn't that amazing? Finding another airline that gives 34 inches of leg space might be challenging! It is quite unheard of in a budget carrier. The seats are Delta Comfort Plus, which is comfortable, and I was very relaxed throughout the flight. The chairs are tall enough for you to rest your head. As a frequent flier, half of your problems are solved if the seat is comfortable! According to my Play Airlines review, it is quite comfortable to travel with this airline. The space for the leg also helps in extending the tray table. There was no charging extension or plug-ins in the Play flights, which is usually there in transatlantic carriers and U.S. airlines. I found the crew very supportive and helpful. I had a very positive experience while interacting with the crew. No food or snack is free; however, this is one of the side effects of low-budget carriers. I did not see any food or water services throughout the flight except at the beginning and end. What I Found Beneficial? In A321neo, headrests were present in each seat with extra padding and adjustable wings. When you fly Play Airlines, you will get better seating comfort than most of the low-budget flying airlines. The setting does help in creating a more comfortable sleeping position. I also noticed that every seat had its lights and dedicated air vents. It helped me a lot because I am an avid reader, so there was no issue with my entertainment as I almost finished a book on the flight. A significant advantage I found on Play Airlines is that there was no bundling, nor was the fare made complicated concerning overall expenditure. I also found the timings of the flights to be mostly punctual. The connecting flights to Europe via Keflavik are conveniently set. Their food and drink collection is quite decent; you can order based on your requirement. There is also no connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, messaging, or entertainment. What Did I Find Negative?  I have heard that the seat arrangements are a mixed bag, such as seats with 34 inches of leg space, while some seats give you a meager 28 inches of leg space. So, as a traveler, you should search on Google Flights regarding the space of the specific flights of Play Airlines before you book tickets. Make sure to check the legroom extension to have some wiggle room. Another significant shortcoming that I noticed on the flight was that there needed to be more power. As a traveler, one thing that is essential in today's time is charging your phone, which I wasn't able to do because of no power. You will not be getting any refund; hence, in case of cancellation from your side, you will need clarification with the services. Another thing that might look like a chore to you is creating an account to view or book seats and baggage fees. The complete itinerary or any schedule based on base fare will only be accessible if you have an account on the official website, www.flyplay.com. PLAY Airlines Reviews: Why Should You Go For It?  If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly way to travel, Play Airlines might just be the perfect fit.   I recently flew with them to Iceland, and I have to say, I was genuinely impressed with the comfort and cleanliness of the experience—especially given how affordable their fares are.   I’m already looking into booking another trip to Europe with them this fall! For those of us who prefer a more laid-back travel style, Play Airlines is ideal.   They get you where you need to go without the extra costs that typically come with mainstream airlines.   On my trip to Iceland, the money I saved on airfare allowed me to explore more once I got there.   I treated myself to a bus tour along the stunning southern coast and even checked out the unique Lava Show in Reykjavík, all without feeling like I was stretching my budget too thin.   Honestly, flying with a low-cost airline like Play opened up more opportunities for me and truly enhanced my overall travel experience.  How To Book On Play Airlines? You have to visit their official website, but before that, search Google Flights. Accordingly, select flights and seats based on your preferences and make your payment. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  1. Play Airlines vs Icelandair: Which one is better?  Play Airlines for the cheapest fares on a no-frills flight, but expect to pay extra for amenities like bags, food, and seat selection.  Opt for Icelandair if you prioritize comfort, want complimentary amenities such as Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment, and are willing to pay more for the added services.   2. How Much are PLAY Airlines baggage fees?  PLAY Airlines offers a pay-as-you-go model for baggage. Every fare includes one free personal item.  However, you will need to pay for checked baggage and additional services like seat selection.  For complete details on baggage fees, visit the PLAY Airlines Terms and Conditions page.  3. Is There Food On PLAY Airlines?  Yes, you can purchase food and drinks onboard all PLAY Airlines flights from their onboard menu, but it is not complimentary  Play Airlines Reviews 2025: Should You Go For It?  My overall experience on Play Airlines was mostly positive. However, some of the shortcomings are quite significant. Having no power to charge your mobile phone devices can seriously put travelers who are traveling long distances at risk. The only solution to this problem is carrying a power bank. You must be aware of these issues before you book a flight! There are limited options to travel to Iceland if you cancel the flight you have booked, or if the authorities have delayed it.  Comment below regarding your choice of place to visit in Iceland and why! Read Also: Is Skyscanner Legit? Know Your Answer Here! Condor Airlines: Is Booking Tickets On Condor Worth It? Momondo Flights: Should You Try This Platform For Booking Flights?

BY  Sibashree Jul 25, 2024

The wild heart of Katmai National Park harbors 14 active volcanoes. This national park of around 5 million acres surpasses the magnificence of the Grand Canyon National Park, and kayaking, canoeing, and hiking here are one-of-a-kind experiences.  One of the oldest national parks, Katmai National Park, was established in 1918. Novarupta Volcano eruption on 6th June 1912 was destructive, and preservation of the habitation around Mount Katmai was crucial.   The National Park Service website says,  “Lasting three days, the largest volcanic eruption of the twentieth century exploded June 6, 1912, from a new volcano, Novarupta. In the process, it created Katmai caldera and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Not only have the 1912 events remained scientifically important ever since, but also the 1912 deposits continue to provide insights about volcanic and magmatic processes that impact us and the land we live in.” (Source)  Today, this national park is a living account of human history, and it is the home for brown bears and salmons. It is also one of the most popular destinations for volcanologists because it’s still active. Further, it has a handsome number of visitors every year, and in 2023, the number of footfall was 33,763. (Source)  Do you also want to explore this magnificent volcanic landscape? Let me be your guide.  Why Are So Many Volcanoes In Katmai National Park?   With “50 discrete volcanic vents,” Katmai National Park is the center of attention of many. But why does it have so many volcanoes?  Volcanoes in the Aleutian volcanic arc and Katmai National Park are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. “The Ring of Fire is home to 75% of the world's volcanoes and 90% of its earthquakes.” (Source)  Many call the Ring of Fire the Circum-Pacific Belt, and many tectonic plates meet here. Due to the constant movements of these plates (especially the subduction of the Oceanic Pacific Plate under the North American Plate every year), volcanic eruptions and earthquakes take place here.   Along with the eruption of  Novarupta-Katmai in 1912, there are also records of the eruption of Mount Trident from 1953 to 1974.   The latest volcanic eruption in Katmai happened with the venting of Fourpeaked Volcano in 2006. Here is an excerpt from a report published on the 2006 volcanic eruption of Fourpeaked Volcano.   “On September 17, 2006 Fourpeaked Mountain, a glacier-clad stratovolcano with no known Holocene activity, produced a plume of steam, ash, and SO2, which rose to 6000 m above sea level. The plume was observed by eye-witnesses, seen on weather radar, and also appeared in SO2-sensitive satellite imagery. Concurrent with the plume, regional seismic stations recorded a swarm of volcano-tectonic earthquakes while an atmospheric infrasound signal was recorded 800 km away. Air and ground reconnaissance revealed a linear series of vigorously steaming vents in the summit glacier, stretching about 1 km down the north flank of the volcano.”  So, are you ready to know about the active and rugged volcanoes in Katmai National Park. The next section gives you a detailed overview.   Know The Volcanoes In Katmai National Park  Volcanoes erupt for a short span if you study the entire timetable of a volcano. However, the eruption is only the outcome of activities that take place for years or even centuries. Similarly, the volcanoes in Katmai National Park have faced long intermittent periods between the occurrences of small and big eruptions.   Further, the volcanic activities and earthquakes taking place in Katmai due to tectonic movements have a major impact on human lives across generations.   Here, I present a brief overview of a few volcanoes out of the 14 in Katmai.  Mount Katmai  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF79ozS_kFA&t=33s Mount Katmai has recorded the highest explosive incidents in the Katmai volcanic cluster. Active for over 70,000 years, the two cones of Mount Katmai were beheaded due to the caldera collapse in 1912.    The eruptive products of Mount Katmai are varied in their compositions, including basalt and rhyodacite.   Mount Griggs Mount Griggs, the tallest peak in the district, is 2,530 m tall. Despite having young lava flows, some of the deposits in Mount Griggs are 290,000 years old.   The volcano is still active and you will get to see the yellow sulfurous steam around its summit.   Trident Volcano https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rQVsdsWsIA Trident Volcano is one of the older volcanoes in Katmai. From 1953 to 1974, Trident Volcano had many eruptions. However, the highest and the central volcanic cone of Trident Volcano has been lying dormant for around 10000 years.   Mount Mageik  Mount Mageik has four discrete eruptive centers covered with snow. However, glaciers have caused severe decay in three of these lava centers. It is a younger volcano in Katmai, with its lava aged between 4,000 and 93,000.   The last eruption of Mount Mageik happened 2500 years ago. It caused a crater between two Mount Mageik summits. Today, the crater is filled with an acid lake, exuding steam curls.   Alagogshak Volcano  Alagogshak stands at the southwesternmost corner of the Katmai volcanic cluster. It is also the oldest in the Katmai family of volcanoes. The lavas in this volcano are 40,000-680,000 years old.   Peak 6875, Snowy Mountain   Peak 6875 is a young dome made of dacite lava. The scoop-shaped peak looks like a natural amphitheater.    Spectacular Landscapes Created By Volcanic Activities In Katmai National Park   The volcanoes in Katmai have created some interesting landscapes, and their activities have encouraged geologists to explore the possibilities. Nonetheless, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes is the most prominent volcanic landscape in Katmai.   It is the work of the largest volcanic eruption in the 20th century. The Novarupta Volcano eruption on 6th June 1912 created this valley.   There are various exciting destinations in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. For the geologists and people studying volcanoes, Novarupta is the ultimate destination. The dome causing the massive eruption in 1912 still carries warm steam.   It is also the most colorful place in the valley, thanks to its kaleidoscopic views caused by the deposition of ash, pumice, and other minerals.   Another popular destination in the valley is the Buttress Range Ridge. Here, you will catch a glimpse of the extensive wildlife in Katmai. Along with the bears, you will also find ptarmigan, ground squirrels, and caribou.   Other fascinating spots to explore in this valley are Katmai Pass, Southwest Trident Lava Flows, Knife Creek Glaciers, Mount Katmai Caldera, Mageik Lakes, etc.   Did You Know?  Katmai has the largest population of protected brown bears in North America.  It is home to around 2000 creatures.  Robert F. Griggs, a botanist who named Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, played an active role in designating Katmai as a national park.  Dumpling Mountain offers the best view of Katmai National Park.  The annual Fat Bear Week in Katmai is a tournament-style competition, and online visitors can choose the winner of the tournament through voting.  Katmai National Monument was established in 1918. The redesignation of the protected and expanded area as a National Park happened in 1980.   Final Words   Active volcanoes add to the spectacle of Katmai National Park, and they attract the most adventurous souls across the globe.   The volcanoes are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and they have an eruptive history, with the last incident occurring in 2006.   AOV, or the Alaska Volcano Observatory, is in charge of monitoring the activities of these volcanoes. It also records the incidents of eruptions from dedicated monitoring stations. Two webcams are also installed at Fourpeaked and Katmai for continuous vigilance of the volcanic landscape.   So, are you ready to visit Mount Griggs, Mount Katmai, and other volcanoes in Katmai National Park? Do you want to have an exciting encounter with wildlife? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!   Katmai National Park FAQs   How To Explore Katmai National Park?  You cannot reach Katmai National Park by road. You can take a floatplane from Kodiak, Anchorage, or Homer. Further, you can take a boat or floatplane from King Salmon.  Both routes lead to the Brooks Camp shore.   What Is Special About Katmai National Park?  Katmai National Park is known for its active and extensive volcanic landscape. It has 14 volcanoes. Further, it is the home to around 2000 species, including brown bears.   You can enjoy your time here by hiking through the trails or boating or canoeing.   What Type Of Volcano Is Katmai Mountain?  Katmai Mountain is a stratovolcano and it had two big cone-shaped volcanoes. The caldera collapse in 1912 beheaded the two cones.   What Wildlife Is In Katmai National Park?  Brown bears are the most popular animals in Katmai National Park. In fact, the national park has the largest population of protected brown bears in North America.   Moose, gray wolves, sea otters, and humpback whales are fascinating animals here. Overall, it is home to around 2000 species of creatures.   What Type Of Trees Are In Katmai National Park?  Sitka spruce, alder thickets, and willow are popular trees in Katmai. You will also find plants like lowbush cranberry, cow parsnip, labrador tea, and watermelon berries here.   Reference:  National Park Service: “Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, we safeguard these special places and share their stories with more than 318 million visitors every year. But our work doesn't stop there.”  Harvard University: “Harvard experts, researchers, and leaders all around the globe make contributions—from public health to conflict resolution—that transcend borders, forge connections, and strengthen communities.”  National Geographic: National Geographic is a “world leader in geography, cartography and exploration.”  Also read Plan A Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park: This Is How You Will Do It. Everglades National Park: The UNESCO Heritage Site With Its Quiet Beauty. Welcome To Biscayne National Park: Enjoy Kayaking and Canoeing At This Watery Wonder.

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

New Orleans may not be the first destination on your mind when you are on a family vacation. The bustling nightlife and food scenario seem to steal all the limelight. However, trust me! A trip to this Louisiana City has revealed a world of family-friendly activities before my eyes. From the ghost tour and a boat ride to the zoo experience or just relaxing by the Mississippi River! The family activities in New Orleans are diverse, and they cater to people of all age groups.  So, coming back from the tour, I decided to write about activities that can be great for your family. This Tour and Travel Guide has everything you need to know! Ultimate Family Activities In New Orleans: Give These A Try On Your Next Visit New Orleans is a melting pot of old and new. So, you have places in the city that take you back to the World War II days. On the other hand, you have modern and adventurous activities like zipline swamp tours.  Let’s know in detail about them. 1. Take A Zipline Swamp Tour https://www.instagram.com/p/CghHc-0um-H/ Are you ready to take a tour of the first full aquatic zipline of the world? Yes, and your road leads to the Zipline Swamp Tour. It allows children aged 9 and above. So, if you have toddlers, you can try this activity but in turns.  This zipline tour with Zip Nola starts at $91 per person. However, if you are traveling in a group, you can call them at 504-350-0947 to inquire about the charges.  They even offer a shuttle service to and from New Orleans at $25. You can book the shuttle service during online booking.  It’s brilliant to explore a swampland area and its ecosystem and have a Hawkeye view of the same. Moreover, there is a fun gift shop from where you can collect souvenirs for your little ones. 2. Take An Escape Room Adventure https://www.instagram.com/p/DDIYEFMySP9/?img_index=6 If you have children aged 13 and above with you, you can take them for an Escape Room Adventure. It is one of the most engaging family activities in New Orleans with everyone trying to solve puzzles.  The Escape Game in the French Quarter adventure has a duration of one hour. Further, eight people take part in a game. So, even if you are a family of 4 or 6, everyone can participate at the same time.  This is really fun, and among all the games, Prison Break is the most difficult escape game.  3. Don’t Forget To Try The Best Street Food Here is my favorite part among the topmost family activities in New Orleans. New Orleans offers the best street food for people of all age groups throughout the year.  You can join a walking food tour of the French Quarter or try the local delicacies at Lower Garden. There are even some tasting tours of Cajun and Creole delicacies.  Moreover, you can try the best beignets at the cafes by the Mississippi River. These fried pastries taste heavenly with black coffee. The vast span of the river in front of you further makes the pastries taste even more delicious.  Nevertheless, here are some best places to try street food with your family when you are in New Orleans.  Bon's New Orleans Street Food, Location: Shops At Jax Brewery, 620 Decatur Street, +1 504-949-0222 St. Roch Market, Location: 2381 St Claude Avenue, New Orleans, Contact Number: +1 504-267-0388 https://www.instagram.com/p/C58_AugRmMD/ Verti Marte, Location: 1201 Royal St, New Orleans, Contact Number: +1 504-525-4767 https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx6Af4VJcmT/ 4. Explore The Local Cajun Culture On Bayou Manchac Taking a cruise along the 18-mile stretch of Bayou Manchac is one of the best family activities in New Orleans if you want to know about your family.  Many guided tours are available, taking you to the important waterbody connecting the Mississippi River to the Amite River.  The best thing about these cruise tours is that children of all age groups are allowed here. Also, you can take this tour irrespective of the season of your visit.  The Louisiana Wildlife Federation supports the designation of Bayou Manchac, earlier known as the Iberville River, as a Louisiana Historic and Scenic River. Today, a tranquil waterway, Bayou Manchac, is home to Cajun Culture and many Native American tribes.  Moreover, you must not miss a visit to the Bayou Manchac National Park at 19010 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70817. You can also contact them at 225-272-9200. The park remains open from sunrise to sunset every day. For me and my family, the conservation areas of the park like the Blackwater Conservation Area and Kendalwood Conservation Area, were the best attractions.  However, there are dedicated sections for art and culture, science and culture, and different kid-friendly activities. In addition, the park has alligators and an endless variety of birds, including Mississippi Kites, bald eagles, woodpeckers, ospreys, etc.  5. Go For A City Tour In A Mule Carriage This is not a favorite of mine, though! But I leave it to choices here! You can take a ride in a mule carriage and explore the French Quarter area.  For children below the age of three, it’s a free ride. Small pets below 20 lbs are also allowed for a tide in these carriages.  6. Visit The New Orleans: National WWII Museum  Address:  945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States Contact Number:  +1 504-528-1944 Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: $18-28 The New Orleans: National WWII Museum is basking in the glory of winning the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2024. Nonetheless, it has always been a top attraction among family activities in New Orleans.  Irrespective of the age, every visitor will be moved here with the stories of World War II. The young minds, especially, will understand the importance of independence and how much struggle goes into it.  The museum\ offers half-day and full-day itineraries. Also, you will love the immersive galleries like the Liberation Pavilion, Road to Berlin, Road to Tokyo, etc.  However, currently, a major attraction here is the 4D multimedia representation, Beyond the Boundaries. It shows how World War II changed the entire world. Moreover, you can go for a guided tour of the museum. The curator will show you many World War II artifacts that are not on display in the museum.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.